How to Give Back During the Holidays and All Year Long

'Tis the Season for egg nog, Santa, holiday craft boutiques, events and opening presents.

For a lot of people the holidays aren't just about spreading cheer and buying gifts, it's about giving back and helping those in need. Don't let the hype of giving back get you jaded before ringing in the new year. If anything, giving back should be a reminder to get involved in something new. Here are some tips on how you can make a difference all year long:

1.  Think about what organizations and causes you support, then make a list. Your kids aren't the only ones who should be making wish lists. Make your own "wish list" and think of five organizations or causes you support or would like to support in the future. Having a wish list can help you keep track of each one. Hang it up on your fridge for an easy reminder.

2. Give a little, clean a little. There are other ways to give back that requires no monetary donations. We all have gotten those flourescent fliers in the mail from a range of organizations ranging from cancer research to missionaries to various funds in need. Next time you get one, instead of throwing it away in the trash, pick one that you like and keep it. Most of the time the organization has a pick up day for goods such as gently used clothes, shoes, household appliances and furniture. 

3. Switch it up. If you already give your time to a special cause or organization, maybe try something new for a change. If you serve at your local soup kitchen regularly, take some time and go to your local senior center. Volunteer Match even does a search by key words if you want to put in a new cause. 

4. Make the committment or don't. Once you've gotten started on figuring out what causes you want to give back to, you'll definitely want to give back even more. It's a huge committment to helping a cause or organization. More importantly, you want to keep the people you are helping in the forefront of your mind. If you can't make it to a commitment, let the volunteer coordinator know. Your support is always in need and there are others who would probably step in if you can't. Be sure to let whoever you volunteer for any schedule conflicts ahead of time. Most of the organizations are non-profits or have little resources to make up for any lost time. 

5. Get friends and family in on it.  If there is something you feel strongly about or an organization that just seems to pull at your heart strings, don't hold that in. Share your volunteer work or causes with others. With so many social networks around today, the best way to get people pumped about a cause is by word of mouth and stories. Sharing a personal story of your experience volunteering and helping those in need will resonate with people. Contact your local newsletter or Patch and ask to share a personal giving story. Also, inviting friends and family to a volunteer event is not only a great way to bond it motivates them to take part in volunteering or other giving projects they've forgotten about.